Nikki Reed wears Naeem Khan at the 2017 Golden Globes.

Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Ever seen a southern mom who didn’t look like perfection? We haven’t either. To find out all the southern secrets, we sat down with Lindsey Dupuis, Lafayette, Louisiana beauty turned Hollywood stylist, who recently welcomed a baby girl (her first).

Dupuis is proud to bring hometown style out west, describing her personal aesthetic as “classic and feminine with a touch of boho.” After earning a degree in fashion design, Dupuis got her start working as Styling Director for Emily Current and Meritt Elliott. Here she worked with Hollywood moms Jessica Alba and Reese Witherspoon, a fellow southerner who Dupuis says she admires for “always keeping it classy and not being afraid to celebrate her roots.”

Photo: FayesVision/WENN

HOW HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED SINCE BECOMING A MOM?

I still live for a flowy, easy dress with a classic leather sandal. You will rarely find me in pants or jeans. I’m still breastfeeding, though, so button down or spaghetti strap dresses are staples because they offer easy access for a quick feed.

WHAT STYLING TIPS HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM EXPERIENCING PREGNANCY FIRST HAND?

I learned that you don’t have to wear maternity clothes during your pregnancy! There are so many silhouettes that cater to a pregnant belly (empire and shift, for example). I kept shopping my favorite brands by just going up a size or two and worked around my belly during pregnancy.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE LOOKS FOR TRICKY THIRD TRIMESTER AND POST-PARTUM PERIODS?

I lived in caftans in my third trimester. They were so comfy and easy to slip on and off. Postpartum I went through my closet and gathered every button down dress I had and put them on heavy rotation. They were the easiest for breastfeeding access.

HOW DO YOU HIDE FIRST TRIMESTER OR POST-PARTUM BUMPS THAT HAVEN’T QUITE GONE AWAY?

Layers! I recommend wearing light dusters or trench coats because they don’t cling to the body, leaving room to disguise a bump. I always wore a soft oversized t-shirt dress underneath a duster, and no one noticed my bump for months. The second layer helps conceal while keeping you looking polished.

This long, light trench by A.L.C. is the perfect layer for both summer and fall.

NEW MOMS HAVE NEITHER TIME NOR CREATIVE ENERGY TO APPLY TO GETTING DRESSED IN THE MORNING. HELP?

Taking three minutes to plan your next day’s outfit before bed is one of my favorite life hacks. It relieves the pressure from an already hectic morning. My go-to outfit is an easy slip dress, light duster, and gladiator sandals, paired with a structured handbag.

HOW DOES SOUTHERN FASHION DIFFER FROM THAT IN LOS ANGELES/NEW YORK CITY?

I can’t speak for everyone, of course; but in my opinion, southern moms tend to stick to the classics. They are more likely to wear a monogramed Louis Vuitton bag and Tory Burch sandals on a daily basis. They choose brands that are recognizable, while LA/NYC moms are typically more willing to incorporate understated pieces and invest in young designers.

WHAT ONE CURRENT TREND SHOULD MOMS INVEST IN NOW?

Show off your shoulders! Pregnant or not, your shoulders are always going to look beautiful. Let them breathe!

This is a great dress by Rachel Pally I’d recommend for a shoulder moment.

LEAVE US WITH YOUR BEST PIECE OF SOUTHERN FASHION ADVICE.

Always take pride in your appearance – remember that your clothes introduce you before you get the chance! My mom and grandma taught me this at a young age.

SHOP DUPUIS’ FAVORITE LOOKS FROM TILDEN

This Rebecca Taylor floral dress reminds me of the dress I wore to my baby shower. I felt feminine and beautiful.

I like to feel like I “might" go on vacation at any moment, so this Enza Costa caftan is calling my name!

I discovered I prefer using triangle bras instead of nursing bras. This one is my favorite.

Cozy pajamas are a must for new moms! These Rails PJs have the softest fabric. You don’t get much rest as a new mom, so you might as well be unbelievably comfortable for the few winks you score!

This Mara Hoffman silhouette was one of my favorites during pregnancy because it is so versatile, and I wear it just as much post-baby.

This A.L.C. tiered star gown looks like the perfect dress for a wedding or date night before or after baby! I love the tiers because they hide the tummy area - helpful if you aren’t feeling back in perfect shape. [Also just worn by Julia Stiles to the Paris premiere of her acclaimed new series, Riviera!]

For more on Lindsey Dupuis, including her portfolio across the Red Carpet, visit lindseydupuis.com.